What Evidence Supports the Advancement of Language Learning Through Digital Innovation? Toward Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the 21st Century Completed with Bibliometric Analysis

This study aims to explore the role and contribution of digital technology in language learning and its connection to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A qualitative method was used through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to examine relevant articles from 2020 to 2025. To ensure transparency and rigor, the PRISMA protocol was adopted during the data identification, screening, and selection process. A quantitative bibliometric approach was applied to analyze keyword co-occurrence using VOSviewer, supporting the network visualization of the research landscape. The findings are presented: (i) a descriptive analysis covering publication trends by year, country, and subject area, and (ii) a keyword-based co-occurrence network visualization. The results reveal three major thematic clusters in technology-supported language education: sustainable digital pedagogy, the application of artificial intelligence, and the development of language and knowledge frameworks. Digital technology can broaden access to language education in underserved regions, support context-sensitive learning models, and improve the overall quality and equity of education. This study provides implementable recommendations for optimizing digital tools in inclusive, adaptive, and responsive ways to support the SDG 4 agenda for equitable and sustainable education.